Columbia White Out II Omni-Heat Puffer vs Columbia White Out Mid Omni-Heat Jacket

Both are Columbia Omni-Heat puffers with the same reflective lining and polyester fill, so warmth per weight is close. The White Out II is the shorter, simpler jacket; the White Out Mid adds a longer cut and a hood, which matters in wind and wet snow. Owners of Columbia's Omni-Heat line consistently praise warmth for the bulk and flag the reflective lining as less breathable on hard activity. Pick the Mid for cold, exposed commutes; pick the White Out II for milder days and layering.

• Choose the White Out II if you want a lighter, shorter puffer for cool-to-cold days and plan to wear it over a sweater or fleece.
• Choose the White Out Mid if you want hip-to-thigh coverage and a hood for wind, sleet and long walks in winter.